Johnston Canyon is one of Banff National Park's most beloved attractions, and the wintertime Icewalk is an expedition that all visitors must experience at least once. This guided Johnston Canyon hike takes you along steel catwalks built into the canyon walls all the way to the iconic frozen Johnston Canyon Upper Falls where you'll have stunning views of the gorge below.
Your journey begins down the Johnston Canyon trail where you'll take a gentle walk to the Lower Falls and wander through a natural cave to gaze down at the flowering waters of the frozen waterfalls. The hike will take you very close to the Lower Falls where you'll see the cascading icicles in the winter sun and take in the serene beauty of the natural formations.
You'll then continue on to the spectacular Upper Falls—a glittering tower of ice that rises 30 metres above your head. These gigantic pillars of ice are the highlight of the Banff walking tour and ice climbers can often be seen scaling the frozen columns. There are viewing platforms in the Upper Falls that give you a chance to stop and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Throughout the Johnston Canyon hike, your friendly tour guide will share interesting tidbits about the history of Johnston Canyon. You'll also travel through the prime wildlife habitat and get to explore nature where you may even see elk, deer, or other wildlife.
Don't miss out on the unforgettable experience of viewing Johnston Canyon's Lower Falls and Upper Falls in winter. Book your tour today and explore the stunning canyon, its frozen waterfalls, and all the natural beauty of this astonishing environment. Make sure to bring your camera and capture the beauty of this natural wonder!
Johnston Canyon is a renowned natural attraction located in the heart of Banff National Park. This trail is a popular hiking route that takes visitors through a breathtaking journey of lush forests, wildlife, and stunning waterfalls. It’s approximately 1.2 km to the Lower Falls and 2.5 km to the Upper Falls, with minimal elevation gain, so it’s great for beginner hikers. The path follows the scenic Johnston Creek, which has carved its way through the limestone rocks over thousands of years, creating a unique and picturesque landscape.
The Johnston Canyon hike is accessible year-round, but is especially beautiful in the winter. In colder months, the canyon transforms into a winter wonderland, with frozen waterfalls and ice formations that create a magical atmosphere. Crowds are also sparser in the winter, making it the perfect time to enjoy the trail. We recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes or snow cleats when hiking the icewalk.
Departure Time: 8:30am, 1:30pm